Already confirmed for the summer is the UK flying display debut of the V-22 Osprey plus rare UK appearances by the Hellenic Air Force’s CL-415 fire-fighting aircraft and two Slovakian MiG-29s.

And now, demonstrating the Air Tattoo’s close links with aircraft manufacturer Pilatus, this summer’s airshow will feature the UK public flying display debut of the PC-21 single-engine, monoplane.

Designed for basic, advanced and fighter lead-in training, the first production PC-21 was rolled out in November 2004 and now, 18 months on, we can see its first display in the UK.

It is fitting that the Air Tattoo should feature the PC-21’s first display since its prototype paid a welcome visit to RAF Fairford in 2002, 16 days after its maiden flight and with only 10 hours of flight testing under its belt.

Also making its flying display debut will be the Royal Navy variant of the Merlin HM1, from 814 Naval Air Squadron. This anti-submarine variant of the EH101 helicopter was first delivered in December 1998, to replace the ageing Sea King helicopters, and the last of the 44 ordered by the Royal Navy were delivered in late 2003.

The Merlin HM1 is designed to operate in all weathers from the flight decks of both large and small ships and can carry up to four homing torpedoes or depth charges, for use against submarines. Its secondary role includes load lifting, casualty evacuation, troop carrying and search and rescue. It has a maximum speed of 167 knots and a range of 925kms.

Visitors to the Air Tattoo will be able to take a close up look at the helicopter with both a second Royal Navy Merlin HM1 and a Royal Danish Air Force Merlin EH-101 variant on static display.

Following an absence of three years, the Swedish Air Force will be making a welcome return to RAF Fairford, bringing with them two JAS-39C Gripens: one flying and one on static display.

This versatile Fighter, Attack and Reconnaissance aircraft from Skaraborg Wing, F7 Satenas, in the south west of the country, is always a popular addition and brings the total number of Gripens at this summer’s Air Tattoo to three, following earlier confirmation that a Czech Air Force Gripen will be making its UK static display debut.

For an up-to-date list of aircraft participating in the Royal International Air Tattoo 2006, click here.